Game Based Learning 2010

Shiv Rajendran co-founded Languagelab.com in 2005. Having started his career with a degree in Computer Science and a Masters degree in Digital Culture & Technology, Shiv gained a wealth of experience in the computer industry applying technology to a range of different purposes before Languagelab. Since it’s foundation Languagelab has taught English to students from 60+ countries bring high quality language instruction to areas where it wouldn't otherwise be available. Today Shiv teaches, blogs, deigns, is active on many social networks.

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Learning languages in a military context has already been done successfully using simulations by the US government. Soldiers are avid gamers especially in the MMO field. Conversely, getting soldiers to engage with language training with language training can be challenging. Simulated language courses provide soldiers with a basic understanding of the language based on real situations that may arise when they are on duty. Language learning programmes with no real interaction do not provide a solider with the relevant cultural experience, variation of accent and vocabulary or sense of risk and realistic sense of urgency that they may encounter in field. For these elements using real people to train with is vital. The social aspect is the key to engagement in this case, as soldiers in countries like Afghanistan are required to use language not only for functional tasks but to build relationships in so called ‘hearts and minds’ campaigns. Imagine being able to visit a virtual Kabul with native Afghan speakers who soldiers could learn language & cultural lessons from. 33% of students taught with this method choose to spend up to 20+hours a week in the simulation with up to 40% language proficiency improvement in 3 months so it has shown visiting a virtual city provides an economic, effective and engaging way to learn a new language. This motivation has been achieved by taking key factors from games and adding a real element which NATO officials have tested to great success